Coronavirus: Italy in new lockdown as Ireland, Netherlands halt AstraZeneca shots
- Restrictions in Italy will cover 48 million people and last until Easter
- AstraZeneca vaccine shrouded in controversy as more countries limit use
Coronavirus restrictions were reimposed across much of Italy on Monday, while Ireland and the Netherlands became the latest countries to suspend AstraZeneca’s Covid-19 shots over blood clot fears despite the firm and the WHO insisting there is no risk.
More than 350 million vaccine doses have been administered globally so far, and the AstraZeneca shot – among the cheapest available – is crucial to roll-outs in poorer parts of the world.
Despite immunisation programmes gathering pace, surges in infections remain a threat and Italian authorities reimposed restrictions on three-quarters of the country until April 6 to suppress an outbreak fuelled by the variant first detected in Britain.
Health Minister Roberto Speranza said on Sunday the government hoped these strict measures and ongoing vaccinations would allow a relaxation of curbs later.
“Each dose of vaccine injected is a step in the direction of the way out of the crisis,” he added.
Schools, restaurants, shops and museums will close, including in Rome and Milan, with residents told to stay home except for work, health or other essential reasons.
